A Bridge Between East and West

Mate Pesti, Hungary's ambassador to China, believes that China's rapid socioeconomic rise positions it as a dominant global power. He sees strengthening cooperation with China as beneficial not only for Hungary but also for the entire European Union.

Pesti highlights the strong leadership and work ethic of the Chinese people as key factors in their success. He expresses confidence that bilateral ties between China and Hungary will continue to grow, underpinned by deepening political alignment, closer people-to-people exchanges, and enhanced cooperation on global challenges.

Hungary was one of the first countries to recognize the People's Republic of China and establish diplomatic relations. The China-Hungary relationship has deepened steadily in the past decade and is at its peak today. Hungary is the third-largest trading partner of China in the Central and Eastern European area, while China remains Hungary's largest trading partner outside the European Union.

During President Xi Jinping's state visit to Hungary in May, bilateral relations were elevated to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for the new era. This new positioning shows the commitment of both countries to consultation and dialogue, regardless of global political tensions or differing opinions on some issues.

Pesti emphasizes the resilience of the China-Hungary relationship, noting its ability to withstand geopolitical shocks and growing hostility toward Chinese interests. He stresses the importance of connectivity and cooperation over decoupling of global supply chains, advocating for free trade as the best path forward for Hungary and the region.

Positioning Hungary as a bridge between the East and the West, Pesti expresses his country's willingness to act as a mediator between China and Europe, promoting dialogue that aligns with Hungarian, European, and Chinese strategic goals. He hopes that Hungary's support for a more pragmatic approach toward China will be seen as an example of how the EU can engage with Beijing in a mutually beneficial way.

Hungary has become an increasingly popular destination for Chinese tourists, with direct flights connecting Budapest to major Chinese cities. Pesti emphasizes the importance of further people-to-people exchanges, which serve as the foundation for relations in all other areas. Initiatives like the Confucius Institute in Hungary and the Liszt Institute in Beijing play a crucial role in promoting cultural understanding and fostering a generation more attuned to each other's cultures.